JOHN FLAXMAN
patron of arts, the generous Lord Bristol gave me a draft
in writing for the payment of my work, which I am to
receive as I may have occasion for it ; and also when his
lordship promised me every assistance and encouragement
that I can possibly want. As my friend Mr. Bunce was
present on this occasion he can inform you of all the
particulars relating to that transaction, as well as every
other particular relating to me and my dear Nancy, who
upon this occasion has behaved with the most heroic
virtue, for when I consulted her concerning whether I
should accept this commission, and whether, having
settled her mind to return to England she should not be
unhappy to remain longer here ? She answered, I
should be my own enemy if I refused the noblest
work that could be offered to a sculptor, and that she
should accommodate her mind to my fortune. For-
give my vanity in telling you that I was particularly
recommended in this work to Lord Bristol by Mr.
Canova, who has done the monuments of two Popes,
and other excellent works, and is esteemed here the
best sculptor in Europe. Pray remember me in the
most grateful and affectionate manner to Mr. Long,
and Mr. Hayley : I lately troubled those gentlemen
with letters, and I hope they have received them.
You will forgive me for not wrriting oftener and better ;
you know how much the studies of an artist ought
to engage his mind.
" My Nancy continually unites with me in earnest
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